Monday, December 31, 2012

In one of the most well-known studies on creative visualization in sports, Russian scientists compared four groups of Olympic athletes in terms of their training schedules (as described in Karate Of Okinawa: Building Warrior Spirit by Robert Scaglione):

At first the aim is to reinforce what you learn in class and achieve basic competency. With regular imaginary practice deeper observations will arise: these can and should be validated in class. Increased fluency is another benefit, again testable with real partners.

There's a saying that "perfect practice makes perfect". Conversely there is a danger that poor practice can lock in bad habits. For this reason it's important not to eschew regular training for pure visualisation: rather start slowly and go gently.

I should also mention that for the more advanced practitioners teaching, judging contests and assessing candidates are all great forms of mental training that have the bonus of helping out others.